Most people don’t realize just how much energy and money it takes to keep a backyard pool warm and ready to dive into. Whether you’re dealing with Florida’s blazing sun or New York’s cooler nights, heating a pool can quickly become one of the biggest expenses in your home. This is where solar pool covers come in.
These covers might look like oversized bubble wraps, but they’re packed with benefits. From saving water to reducing energy bills, solar covers are a game changer for anyone with an in-ground pool. In this post, we take a look at how they work and why they’re especially useful in Florida and New York homes.
What’s a Solar Pool Cover?
A solar pool cover (also called a solar blanket) floats on the surface of your pool and uses the sun’s energy to heat the water. During the day, it collects heat and warms the water naturally. At night, it acts like insulation, keeping that warmth from escaping and your pool at a comfortable temperature.
But it doesn’t stop there. Solar covers also help reduce water evaporation, cut down on chemical use, and keep your pool cleaner. All that adds up to less maintenance and more time enjoying your pool.
Florida: Beat the Heat and Save Water
If you live in Florida, you know the sun is no joke. It’s great for pool days, but it also causes a ton of water to evaporate. That’s where a solar cover really shines. Benefits include:
- Stops Water from Vanishing: A solar cover can reduce evaporation by up to 95%. That means less topping off your pool and more time enjoying it.
- Cuts Down on Chemicals: When water evaporates, so do your pool chemicals. With a cover, you’ll use fewer chemicals and save money.
- Keeps the Pool Warmer: Florida nights can still get cool. A solar cover traps heat so your pool stays warm longer, which reduces constant heater use.
- Longer Swim Season: With warmer water and lower costs, you can start swimming earlier in the spring and keep going later into the fall.
Which Pool Cover Works Best for Insulation?
There are many types of pool covers available, and they are all designed to help reduce maintenance, retain heat, and keep your pool protected. While all of them contribute to energy savings, covers with tighter sealing capabilities tend to offer better insulation.
Here’s a quick look at how each type works:
Manual Automatic Covers: Ideal for smaller pools, this system uses a hand crank to retract the cover. It’s a simple, budget-friendly option that still helps retain heat.
On-Deck Track Covers: A low-profile track is mounted on the deck, and the cover retracts into a bench or recessed housing. Works with most pool shapes and offers solid coverage.
Recessed Track Covers: Installed during pool construction, the track is built into the deck for a cleaner look and reliable performance.
Under-Coping Track Covers: The track is hidden under the pool’s edge, creating a seamless appearance and a snug fit that helps reduce heat loss.
Each system has its own advantages depending on your pool’s shape, size, and how much insulation you’re looking for. To find the best fit for your needs, it’s always recommended to reach out to professionals. They’ll help you choose the right cover based on your pool layout and energy-saving goals.
Ready to Make Pool Life Easier?
At ClearDeck, we’re all about helping you get the most out of your backyard pool. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Florida or squeezing every drop of summer in New York, a solar pool cover is a smart, simple way to save money and enjoy your pool more. Reach out to us today to explore our solar cover options and get expert advice tailored to your pool and climate. Let us help you make your pool warmer, cleaner, and more fun all season long!